With A-level results day now a distant memory, many young people are preparing to move away from home for the first time to begin their university journey. Alongside clothes and kitchen items, students will often pack laptops, smartphones, tablets, cameras and even bicycles. These possessions can be extremely valuable, and without suitable insurance, a single theft or accident could cause significant disruption and financial strain.
Are Students Covered Under Their Parents’ Insurance?
It is important for families to check whether a student’s possessions are covered under an existing home contents insurance policy. Some providers will include this, although the cover may only apply if the student returns home during holiday periods. For example, Aviva Direct Home insurance allows up to £12,000 worth of belongings to be covered at term-time accommodation, provided the student is in full-time education and regularly returns home1.
However, not all home contents policies include this benefit. Some require an optional extension, while others exclude student belongings altogether. Parents should therefore review their policy carefully before assuming that cover is in place.
The Value of Student Possessions
It is easy to underestimate the value of what students take to university. A typical laptop may cost £500 to £1,000, while a smartphone can range from £300 to more than £1,000. Adding headphones, tablets, sports equipment or a bicycle can easily bring the total into several thousands of pounds. Losing one or more of these items without insurance could place a heavy financial burden on a student budget.
Points to Consider When Arranging Cover
- Check parental policies first. Find out if the existing policy covers belongings away from home, and under what conditions.
- Review limits on single items. High-value gadgets and bicycles may need to be specified separately if they exceed the single-item limit.
- Understand the excess. A higher excess may reduce premiums but increases the amount you need to pay if a claim is made.
- Consider out-of-home cover. Students frequently use devices in libraries, cafés and on campus, so it is important to know whether these situations are included.
- Check exclusions. Some policies may exclude accidental damage or have limits on how long a property can be left unoccupied.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
While insurance provides valuable protection, prevention is equally important. Students should:
- Keep valuables out of sight when not in use.
- Lock doors and close windows, even if only leaving the room for a short time.
- Register devices with tracking or serial number services.
- Mark items with a UV pen or security tag to help with recovery if stolen.
Important Reminder
This article is intended to provide general information only. It does not constitute regulated financial advice. Insurance terms, conditions and availability vary, and it is essential that families review their own circumstances and, where appropriate, seek guidance from a professional adviser.
In Summary
As students prepare for the move to university, ensuring their possessions are protected is an important step. With the average value of belongings often reaching several thousands of pounds, suitable cover offers peace of mind for both students and parents at what is already a significant moment of change.
Sources
- Aviva (2024). Aviva offers £12,000 worth of cover for student belongings under parents’ home contents insurance. Available at: https://www.aviva.com/newsroom/news-releases/2024/09/aviva-offers-12%2C000-pounds-worth-of-cover-for-student-belongings-under-parents-home-cover/ [Accessed 20 Aug. 2025]
All the information in this article is correct as of the publish date 28th August 2025. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. The information provided in this article, including text, graphics and images does not, and is not intended to, substitute advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this article are for general informational purposes only. Information in this article may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.
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